European Stars and Stripes (Newspaper) - May 28, 1992, Darmstadt, Hesse                                Spa visitors sip water from one of the Springs. The Bathhouse sits at the end of a wooded path lined with Park benches. A Monument reflects the spa s past grandeur. A amps photos by Ron Mckinney economic health slowly returning Tokar Lovy vary after years of structural decay at the hands of communist leadership the old spa City of Karloy vary in Northwest Czechoslovakia is rebuilding itself into one of its country s most attractive tourist stops. A lasting impression of the City is that it was once perhaps As recently As 40 or 50 years ago a thriving and prosperous resort City. And indeed Back in the 19th Century it was drawing a mix of poor and the famous including Goethe Tolstoy Beethoven Gogol Metternich Friedrich von Schiller and even Karl Marx to Sample its Mineral Waters. But for the time being the Beauty of its Dingy Brown buildings is obscured by the ubiquitous scaffolds often covering an entire Side of a building. Few of the buildings Are being torn Down instead they Are simply receiving a major and much needed face lift. Karloy vary can Trace its history to the 14th Century when Charles in before he was holy roman emperor discovered the hot Springs during a Hunting trip. One of his dogs fell into the bubbling water and was scalded. Charles a fan of italian spas had Baths constructed on the spot. Today Karloy vary s main attractions Are its Waters and its Crystal. It has several different natural Springs All the glittering White russian orthodox Church stands amid dirty spa buildings along the Tepla River. With documented curative Powers. Many of the locals walk leisurely around with a cup full of the water which contains magnesium and other Quot Healing Quot elements. And of course there is still the Bathhouse where a refreshing visit could include a Mineral Bath and Massage. Everywhere one turns whether at shops or on the Street Crystal is for Sale. Chandeliers glasses Tea sets and Many other items Are available in abundance at Cut rate prices. Prices vary depending on the Quality. The town Center has an impressive shopping area for a country that turned to capitalism just three years ago. Still Karloy vary is a significant step Down in economic class from its Peers in Western Europe. Many of the Small markets barely fill their shelves and selections Are limited. However prices of what you can buy Are very reasonable. For example one can buy a tasty hot dog for less than 25 cents. What did survive the Long hold of communism is the fabulous grand hotel Pupp where a double room can go for about $130. It s top of the line As far As Czechoslovakia goes with All the amenities one would expect from a four Star hotel. A Ron Mckinney May 28, 1992 stripes Magazine 77